10 September headlines

Public may end up paying for obsolete smart meters that save little, MPs warn

The government’s £11 billion roll-out of smart gas and electricity meters will cost every home about £215 over the next 15 years – yet households will save at most just 3% a year on the average energy bill by 2030, MPs have warned. Guardian.

Minister warns on penalties for climate deal breaches

A pivotal global climate change deal due to be signed in Paris at the end of next year is unlikely to include financial penalties for any countries that end up breaching it, the UK energy and climate secretary has revealed. Financial Times.

£40bn tidal energy plan on show

Plans for a series of tidal barrages which it’s claimed could provide enough electricity for 5 million homes across the North West, are to goon show at a series of public events. A group of business leaders believe the scheme would boost the region’s economy and plan to ask for government financial backing. BBC.

Winter weather is growing more extreme, say scientists

British winters are becoming more extreme as the weather fluctuates between very cold, snowy years and mild, stormy one, scientists have warned. Weather patterns over the North Atlantic have becoming increasingly volatile during winter months. Telegraph.